Saratoga History Center Presents Five Historian’s Tours

BALLSTON SPA — After a successful launch of Saratoga County Historian’s tours in 2022, the History Center at Brookside Museum has announced five tours will take place from mid-July through September. 

“Getting your feet on the ground where history happened is an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of our modern communities,” Lauren Roberts, Saratoga County Historian said in a statement. “These walks reveal a glimpse of the past while providing context for the places we drive by every day.” 

Each of the tour leaders are experienced historians with a depth of knowledge about their communities and the people who lived there. Tours are scheduled for 90 minutes and distances vary up to 1.5 miles. 

Wednesday, July 19, 10 a.m. – Hillside Cemetery & Burnt Hills Baptist Church. Ballston Town Historian Rick Reynolds will explain how the Town of Ballston is preserving its past in Hillside Cemetery and tell stories of those buried there.

Thursday, Aug. 17, 1 p.m. – Round Lake. Village Historian Lance Spallholz and Scott Rigney will describe the community’s history which started in 1868 as a location for Methodist Camp meetings. The unique architecture of the village’s buildings will be on display.

Friday, Sept. 1, 10 a.m. – Ballston Spa Sensory Tour. Anne Clothier, Education Director at Brookside Museum, will explore the sights, sounds and smells of days of olde. Bring your children and grandchildren to this tour!

Saturday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m. – Historic Jonesville. Join Clifton Park Historian John Scherer for a walk through the historic hamlet of Jonesville and a tour of the Jonesville Rural Cemetery.

Tuesday, Sept. 26, 1 p.m. – Waterford 1810-1880.  Russ Vandervoort, Waterford Town Historian will lead a walking tour of downtown Waterford, describing local landmarks and influential residents who lived there in the mid-19th century.

Registration must be made in advance at brooksidemuseum.org/events. A suggested donation of $10 per registration (individuals, couples or families) will support the programs of the History Center and a not-for-profit organization chosen by the tour leaders. Specific directions and parking locations will be provided to registrants in advance of the tour dates. For more information, call the History Center at 518-885-4000 or visit www.brooksidemuseum.org